🧀🍞🦠Microbial fermented food festival 🥮

 

Chandipura Virus: A Deadly Threat

 

Introduction

The Chandipura virus (CHPV) is an emerging pathogen that has garnered attention due to its rapid and often fatal impact on infected individuals. Discovered in 1965 in the village of Chandipura in Maharashtra, India, this virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, the same family that includes the rabies virus. Despite its relatively obscure status in global health discourse, CHPV has caused several outbreaks in India, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality, particularly among children.

The Virus and Its Transmission

CHPV is an RNA virus and exhibits a bullet-shaped structure characteristic of the Rhabdoviridae family. It primarily targets the central nervous system, leading to encephalitis—a severe inflammation of the brain. The virus is believed to be transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies, specifically Phlebotomus species. Sandflies are vectors known for spreading other diseases like leishmaniasis, making them a significant public health concern.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The incubation period for CHPV is relatively short, typically ranging from two to five days. Initial symptoms include high fever, headaches, vomiting, and seizures, quickly progressing to more severe neurological manifestations such as altered mental status, coma, and, in many cases, death. The rapid progression of the disease often leaves little time for effective medical intervention.

Diagnosis of CHPV can be challenging due to its symptomatic similarities with other viral encephalitis infections. Laboratory tests, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), are essential for confirming the presence of the virus. These tests detect viral RNA and specific antibodies against CHPV, respectively.

Treatment and Prevention

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for CHPV. Management of the disease primarily focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms and maintain vital functions. This includes measures like controlling fever, preventing seizures, and ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition. Given the high mortality rate associated with CHPV, early detection and supportive care are crucial in improving patient outcomes.

Preventive measures are vital in controlling the spread of CHPV. Reducing sandfly populations through insecticide use, improving sanitation, and using protective measures such as bed nets and repellents can significantly decrease the risk of transmission. Public health education is also essential to inform communities about the risks and preventive strategies associated with CHPV.

Research and Future Directions

Ongoing research is crucial to understand the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and potential treatment options for CHPV better. Scientists are exploring vaccine development, antiviral drugs, and more effective diagnostic tools. Additionally, studies on the ecological aspects of sandfly vectors and their control can provide valuable insights into preventing future outbreaks.

The Chandipura virus remains a significant public health threat, particularly in regions where sandflies are prevalent. While progress has been made in understanding this virus, much work remains to be done to develop effective treatments and preventive measures. Increased awareness, research, and public health initiatives are essential in combating this deadly virus and mitigating its impact on vulnerable populations.

Structure Chandipura virus

(https://nmji.in/neuropathogenesis-by-chandipura-virus-an-acute-encephalitis-syndrome-in-india/)

References

• Mishra, A. C., et al. (2001). Chandipura virus: A major cause of acute encephalitis in children in Andhra Pradesh, India. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 7(6), 992-993.
• Rao, B. L., et al. (2003). Chandipura virus: A newly recognized cause of acute encephalitis syndrome in India. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 36(7), 917-921.
• Pavri, K. M. (1986). Clinical, virological, and serological aspects of Chandipura virus infection. Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 80(2), 197-202.

The Brain-Eating Amoeba : Naegleria fowleri Infection

Naegleria fowleri, commonly referred to as the "brain-eating amoeba," is a free-living, thermophilic amoeba found in warm freshwater environments. It is infamous for causing a rare but often fatal brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Naegleria fowleri, including its biology, transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Biology and Habitat:

Naegleria fowleri is a single-celled organism that thrives in warm freshwater bodies such as lakes, hot springs, and poorly maintained swimming pools. The amoeba has three life stages:

Cyst Stage: During unfavorable conditions, the amoeba encysts, becoming a hardy, dormant form that can survive extreme environments.

Trophozoite Stage: This is the feeding, replicating, and infective form of the amoeba. It consumes bacteria and other organic matter in the water.

Flagellate Stage: In response to certain stimuli, trophozoites can transform into a temporary, motile form with two flagella, aiding in their movement.

Transmission:

Naegleria fowleri infection occurs when contaminated water enters the body through the nose, typically during activities such as swimming, diving, or using inadequately chlorinated recreational water. The amoeba then travels up the olfactory nerve to the brain, where it causes severe inflammation and destruction of brain tissue.

Symptoms:

The onset of PAM symptoms usually occurs within 1 to 9 days after exposure. Early symptoms are nonspecific and can mimic bacterial meningitis, making early diagnosis challenging. Initial symptoms include:

• Severe headache
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stiff neck
• As the infection progresses, more severe neurological symptoms develop, such as:
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Coma

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing PAM requires a high index of suspicion, especially in patients with a history of recent freshwater exposure. Diagnostic methods include:

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis: Examination of CSF obtained via lumbar puncture can reveal elevated white blood cell counts, elevated protein levels, and low glucose levels. The presence of motile trophozoites in a wet mount preparation is a definitive indicator.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): This molecular technique can detect Naegleria fowleri DNA in CSF samples with high sensitivity and specificity.

Imaging: CT scans or MRI of the brain can show cerebral edema and other abnormalities indicative of PAM.

Treatment

The prognosis for PAM is generally poor, with a mortality rate exceeding 97%. However, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment can improve survival chances. Treatment options include:

Amphotericin B: This antifungal agent is the cornerstone of PAM treatment. It can be administered intravenously and intrathecally (directly into the spinal canal).

Miltefosine: Originally developed as an anti-leishmanial drug, miltefosine has shown promise in treating PAM due to its amoebicidal properties.

Other Medications: Additional drugs like rifampin, azithromycin, fluconazole, and dexamethasone are often used in combination with the primary treatments to enhance efficacy and manage inflammation.

Prevention

Given the high fatality rate of PAM, prevention is crucial. Recommendations to reduce the risk of Naegleria fowleri infection include:

• Avoid swimming or diving in warm freshwater bodies, especially during hot weather when water temperatures are elevated.
• Use nose clips or keep your head above water when engaging in water-related activities in freshwater environments.
• Ensure that swimming pools and hot tubs are adequately chlorinated and well-maintained.
• Avoid disturbing sediment in shallow, warm freshwater areas, as this can release amoebas into the water column.
  

Naegleria fowleri's life-cycle

Admission For Academic Year 2024-25

 

🔬National Science Day 2024 🔬:Seminar: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

 

Shri Vyankatesh Arts, Commerce & Science College,

Deulgaon Raja

Department of Microbiology

Seminar: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

Date: February 28, 2024

Occasion: National Science Day-2024

Theme: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

Resource Person: Dr. U. P. Mogle Professor & Head, Dept. of Botany, J. E. S College, Jalna)

President: Mr. B.U. Kale (Assistant Professor & Head, Department of Chemistry)

Venue: Auditorium, S.V. College, Deulgaon Raja

Glimpses of Seminar:

 

 

 

🔬 National Science Day 2024 🔬 HPV Vaccine Awareness Quiz

The hepatitis B vaccine is a series of shots that protects against hepatitis B for many years. It's safe and effective, and the most common side effect is soreness at the injection site. 

Who should get the vaccine? 

All infants
All children and adolescents younger than 19 who have not been vaccinated
Adults 19–59
Adults 60 and older with risk factors for hepatitis B

How is the vaccine given?

The vaccine is given as an injection into the upper arm or thigh 
The number of doses depends on the vaccine brand, but it's usually two or three shots 
The second dose is usually given one month after the first dose 
The third dose is usually given six months after the second dose 

When is the vaccine recommended? 

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that babies get the vaccine within 24 hours of birth

Who may be at risk for hepatitis B? 

People who have diabetes, HIV, or chronic liver disease
People who have sex with multiple partners or with someone who has hepatitis B
People who use drugs with needles
People who work in health care or other settings where they may come into contact with blood
People who travel to countries where hepatitis B is common

Calling All Life Sciences Students…

Greetings Students,

In celebration of National Science Day 2024, we're excited to invite you to participate in an Online HPV Vaccine Awareness Quiz, specially curated for students like you!

How to Participate: Register for the quiz using the provided link.

https://forms.gle/HUrd79ouyziNTQXW6

Blood Group Detection camp ( 21 Sept.2023)